On January 9, 2025, Forbes magazine unveiled a list of anticipated K-pop album releases like BTS, BLACKPINK, GOT7, etc, slated for the year. After a 2-year hiatus as a full group, BTS will make their long-awaited return, with reports suggesting a new album on the horizon. This news has sparked immense enthusiasm among their loyal fanbase.
Similarly, renowned groups like GOT7, who have been inactive for some time, are preparing to make a comeback with fresh music. Adding to the buzz, there is speculation that BLACKPINK might also release a group album, fueling anticipation for a year filled with returns from some of K-pop's biggest names.
While not all details have been officially confirmed, the mere possibility of these artists staging comebacks has already set the stage for a highly anticipated year in the K-pop industry. Fans eagerly await further announcements, ready to celebrate the return of their favorite acts.
Major K-pop groups BTS, BLACKPINK and Stray Kids slated to release new music this year
As 2025 has arrived, the K-pop industry is already excited over new lineups of upcoming albums and comebacks. Fans are gearing up for a year filled with both rumored returns from global icons like BTS and BLACKPINK and confirmed releases from celebrated groups such as GOT7, Stray Kids, BSS, etc.
The new year eventually started with Stray Kids and TREASURE setting the tone early. On January 5, Stray Kids released their STEP OUT 2025 announcement video. Meanwhile, TREASURE has teased fans with promises of a fresh sound and new dynamics within the group’s leadership, setting high expectations for their dual album releases this year.
Elsewhere, major players like SEVENTEEN’s subunit BSS, IVE, ONEUS, BBGIRLS, CIX, STAYC, and BLACKPINK’s Lisa have all confirmed plans to drop new projects within the first two months of the year. Even BLACKPINK's Jennie had teased about releasing new music in the first half of this year.
BTS and BLACKPINK’s potential activities remain at the center of anticipation. With BTS members Suga, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook expected to complete their mandatory military service this year, fans eagerly await news of the group’s complete return. Whether it’s through new music, an event, or both, a BTS comeback is sure to be a defining highlight of 2025.
For BLACKPINK, 2025 is anticipated to bring significant developments. YG Entertainment has hinted at plans for a new world tour, their first since wrapping up the Born Pink World Tour in 2023. Fans are hopeful this announcement signals fresh group music alongside the ongoing success of Lisa, Jisoo, Jennie, and Rosé in their solo endeavors. The prospect of the quartet reuniting as evolved artists adds to the growing excitement.
Beyond BLACKPINK, YG Entertainment has unveiled a release schedule that includes AKMU, WINNER, and BABYMONSTER projects. Meanwhile, SM Entertainment has lined up first-quarter releases from artists like Kai of EXO, Seulgi of Red Velvet, and TEN of NCT, along with a debut project from their virtual artist, naevis.
2025 also promises the return of beloved veteran groups like BTS and other solo artists. GOT7 and INFINITE are preparing for their first group comeback albums since 2022 and 2023, respectively, rekindling excitement among their fanbases. NCT’s Mark is set to release his first full solo album in April, following the success of his previous singles, 200 and Fraktisya.
The reported schedule released can be given as follows:
January:
- M.O.N.T
- ONEW
- CREZL,
- XLOV
- SEVENTEEN - BSS
- 2Z
- Woosung
- GFRIEND
- ONEUS
- BBGIRLS
- WEi
- GOT7
- KickFlip
- MINNIE of (G)I-DLE
- CIX
February:
- IVE
- PLAVE
- EVNNE
- Lisa
- STAYC
- TREASURE
- ZEROBASEONE
March:
- 2NE1
- INFINITE
April:
- Mark (NCT)
Other unscheduled comebacks:
- BLACKPINK
- BTS
- AKMU
- Stray Kids
- EXO (Kai)
- G-dragon
With a mix of established idols, rising stars, and fresh concepts on the horizon, the year will be a significant comeback period for K-pop. As more announcements roll in, fans can look forward to a steady stream of music and world tours.